5th Centenary of the Birth of Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestr

On the occasion of the 500th anniversary of the birth of Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, the Vatican City State’s Postal and Philatelic Service pays tribute to the distinguished composer with a postage stamp, created by the artist Raúl Berzosa. The composer Palestrina (1525–1594) worked primarily within Roman musical institutions, notably as Master of the Cappella Giulia and singer of the Pontifical Sistine Chapel Choir. Highly esteemed during his lifetime, he remains a key reference point in sacred music. While he favored the musical composition of masses, he also wrote numerous motets, characterized by a rich and pictorial style. His work is renowned for the clarity and intelligibility of the text, fully adhering to the polyphonic reform principles established by the Council of Trent.